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Host nation Morocco overcame a nervy start to defeat Comoros in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.

This constituted a less than dominant performance, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.

Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities

The hosts failed to convert an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite dominating possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.

The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.

Every opening game is always difficult but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Walid Regragui.

El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance

Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.

Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.

The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity

The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.

Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of further fine saves to keep down the score as the game wore on, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.

Injury Concern for Morocco

The three points was partially marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in some distress.

The centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup last month after a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.

The win extends the team's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.